I’ve been refinishing fir posts: no stain, clear coat only, southern exposure, beachfront. The side of the post that is facing out was very damaged and so required full clear coat removal (sanded down to bare wood using 80, 120 grit). The other 3 sides were in very good condition and only required a light sanding and recoat. Sounds good right? Only problem is this… the newly sanded side is turning quite a dark amber when I apply the product, while the sides that did not require sanding are as beautiful and light in colour as before, and perfectly match all the other wood work on the house. As it happens, any little bits of clear coat that accidentally got left behind (in those tight spots where the post meets the ceiling or deck) are also maintaining their light colour. Oh, and yes, I’m using the same product as was originally used: Sikkens Cetol door and window clear satin finish. Is it possible that this could be really deep sun damage that is actually below the surface that was completely sanded off? I’m confused! Usually the opposite is true… sanding off wood that has darkened due to UV from the sun generally goes lighter in colour and is more true to what it looked like the day it was installed.